perennial

Northern Star African Lily

Agapanthus praecox 'Northern Star'

$17.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Agapanthus praecox 'Northern Star' is a clump-forming perennial known for its striking blue flowers and long flowering season.

This cultivar is noted for its compact habit and ability to bloom well in smaller garden spaces.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesViolet-blue flowers create a striking focal point in gardens, thriving in sunny borders and adding color from early summer to fall.
Practical UsesLow-maintenance perennial that tolerates drought once established, reducing garden upkeep.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesAgapanthus praecoxAfrican Lily, Lily of the Nile

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Great Garden Plants
Free Shipping Available (Threshold: $100.00)
<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays
In Stock$17.99

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 6 weeks.
  3. Provide full sun for optimal flowering and growth.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
  6. Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant Agapanthus praecox in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
  • Fertilize monthly in spring and summer
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
  • Refrain from pruning in late fall or winter
  • Avoid fertilizing with high nitrogen in late season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, violet-blue flowering borderSymmetric perennial bed accentLow-maintenance garden focal point

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaEchinaceaCoreopsisYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Northern Star African Lily questions

What zones can Northern Star African Lily grow in?

Northern Star African Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Northern Star African Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Northern Star African Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Northern Star African Lily bloom?

Northern Star African Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Northern Star African Lily need full sun?

Northern Star African Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Northern Star African Lily drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Northern Star African Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Northern Star African Lily with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.